Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has reacted after the Nigerian army admitted killing a 16-year-old peaceful protester in Zaria.
Reacting, Atiku Abubakar called for a thorough investigation into other instances of violence perpetrated by security agencies in the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protest.
The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the detention of the soldier who shot the 16-year-old Ismail Mohammed in Zaria, in Kaduna State, was a commendable step.
In a statement, on Wednesday, posted on his X handle, Atiku reiterated that the use of lethal force on peaceful protesters must not be authorized.
He said, “I am heartened by the acknowledgement made by the Nigerian Army regarding the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of a young protester’s life. I also urge for thorough investigations into other instances of violence perpetrated by the military, police, and other security agencies during these protests, in the spirit of accountability.
“The decision to detain the soldier responsible for this unfortunate incident marks a commendable step towards accountability and preserving the rule of law. I have consistently advised the service chiefs and military commanders that the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters must not be authorized.
“Upholding the principle of accountability is paramount, and the actions taken by the Nigerian Army in apprehending and, hopefully, prosecuting the soldier responsible for this incident align with this fundamental principle.”
The former vice president emphasized that soldiers should not be deployed to suppress civil unrest.
“Even amidst conflicts, it is crucial to adhere to rules of engagement. Soldiers should not be deployed to suppress civil rights protests,” he added.
